Awesome. If you've used the two previous models of the Speed can you comment on grip shape? I wasn't a fan of the Youtek Speed. Never got to really use the IG so how did those two compare? And now this one.. closer to the IG, closer to the Youtek, or something different altogether?

Taking it out tomorrow morning. Got busy tonight and couldn't get there. I'm dying to hit with it as the specs are right there near my other racquet I like.

As for the grip, I have owned both youtek and IG speeds. This grip is definitely not roundish like the youtek I had. It has a slight squareness to it. It reminds me of my old head oversize racquets (twin tube radicals). Definitely feels solid in the hand.

Taking it out tomorrow morning. Got busy tonight and couldn't get there. I'm dying to hit with it as the specs are right there near my other racquet I like.

As for the grip, I have owned both youtek and IG speeds. This grip is definitely not roundish like the youtek I had. It has a slight squareness to it. It reminds me of my old head oversize racquets (twin tube radicals). Definitely feels solid in the hand.

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I'm just as excited. And thats good to hear that it isn't similar to the Youtek.. I couldn't deal with that grip. What racquet were you using prior to this? Have you committed to the switch (did you buy them) or are these just demos?

Current set up is a Babolat 2012 Pure Drive Roddick Plus with Solinco Outlast at 57#.

Racquet used is the new Head Speed Pro Graphene strung with Head Sonic Pro Edge at 55#.

I know many of you are thinking this is a radical change and much different racquet from what I have used but I was looking for more control, but without losing the power and weight of my Babolat.......... well today I just might have found my new stick.

I had a lesson today from a 5.0 Italian pro in the area and was able to rally and play some games for a while with tis new stick.

Mine weighs in at 12.2 ounces strung with an over grip and dampener installed. 5.5 points head light.

First thing I noticed is the racquet swings pretty fast for a heavy stick. Much faster than my plus which is kind of sluggish. This thing feels more like an 11.3-11.5 racquet.

Groundstrokes were amazing. A little less power than my Roddick, but not enough to make me want to change back to hit. This racquet feels extremely solid at contact and it has a much larger sweet spot than the previous speeds (IG and Youtek). The string bed at 55# still did not feel boardy. This sweet spot rewards you striking the middle to lower portion of the racquet, but hits near the top are very solid and you still have ample power on mishits.

Serves are the same, easy power with a good swing and form. Flat serves had a ton of pace and spin is easily generated with the 18x20 pattern, which in the past has not always been the case.

Returns are very stable and I did not feel and twist when returning heavy balls.

Persons with one handed backhand will love this stick as they seem effortless and the weight of the stick is spot on.

I was not able to do many volleys or touch shots, but will be able to report on that tomorrow.

I know it seems to good to be true, but for me it seems perfect. I am sure others will hate it, but I think most seeking a 12 + racquet with control and power will look no further.

Maybe this is a honeymoon period, only the next week will tell for sure, but I am very impressed with this thing so far.

It gives me everything I wanted that the Babolat could not with only slightly less, more controllable power.

Neil how would rate the stiffness compared to the previous IG and Youtek versions? Also Sonic Pro Edge is yet to be widely released but it sounds like it is a good match for this frame and may be even softer playing than the current Sonic Pro (something my ageing arm will appreciate!)?

I also just came back from playing this stick for most of the day. I enjoyed playing the stick, found enough stability and enough solidness from the frame. I found it was quite maneuverable and I was very comfortable at net which is something I was looking for in a new frame. Returns and serves were solid, definitely improvement from my PSTGT. One knock I had on the demo frame was that the string was pretty bad..(not sure if it was Head's new FXP Tour, but its black) I wasn't getting any comfort from the string bed.. it felt quite harsh even though its probably a soft co-poly. I'm feeling some pain/soreness in the muscle below my forearm which is common whenever I play a full poly bed. I feel like the stiffness is definitely highlighted with this frame and I would appreciate my normal set up much more with this stick (a hybrid of poly/gut). I was nailing my backhand.. my forehand needed some adjustments .. I was missing plenty of forehand down the line shots. Overall I was satisfied with this frame and I think I prefer it over the Blade (the other frame I'm demoing right now).

Neil how would rate the stiffness compared to the previous IG and Youtek versions? Also Sonic Pro Edge is yet to be widely released but it sounds like it is a good match for this frame and may be even softer playing than the current Sonic Pro (something my ageing arm will appreciate!)?

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I've never played with either versions extensively but I can tell you the racquet definitely does not feel plush or soft. I like the feel but I definitely will like my gut in my hybrid to soften up the string bed a bit more. I could never see myself playing full poly in this frame just for my arms sake.

Neil,
How does the new Speed compare to the IG YT Prestige MP and IG YT Prestige Pro???

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Can't comment on this but I can definitely tell you that the Speed packs a bigger punch than the MP highlighted by the thicker beam. Not sure about the power level on the Pro. Little less control than the Prestige I'm sure. The only relation I have to the Prestige MP is being a former user of the FXP Prestige MP for more than 3-4 years. I flirted with the MG Prestige for close to a year before returning back to the FXP.

OZ, the edge is out in a few stores where I live. It plays much softer in my opinion. I don't see much difference in spin, but the string bed is lively and the control is there as well. Great stuff.....I will definitely pick up a reel.

Neil how would rate the stiffness compared to the previous IG and Youtek versions?

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OZ, even though the specs put this one as the most stiff of the three at 68, I feel it plays less harsh than the IG. Image always thought the youtek version was by far the flex king of the trio. I would put this in the middle.

I believe the large sweet spot on this stick causes it to feel softer that it is, by this I mean it does not seem stiff at all. Shots are solid and smooth with great feel. Not sure if its all the stick, strings, or both. The stick is the perfect blend with these strings and I felt no arm/elbow pain at all. As I have said before the weight distribution allows this stick to swing easy and fluid. It feels lighter than it is.

Agree with Neil....the Speed Pro Graphene is a good stick. I have been hitting with the Speed Pro, the MP and the Instinct; the use of the graphene technology has helped these new iterations. They are all nice in their own way....the Pro for those who like tight patterns hits a nice ball with some added punch compared to the IG models. Even thought all three of these have relatively higer stiffness ratings to help in the power department, they don't hit stiff at all. I am partial to the MP version with it's 16x19 pattern offering nice spin with good plow through for an eleven ouncer. The Instinct is a little light for my tastes (good platform stick) but really grabs the ball nicely and has good comfort despite the 70+ stiffness rating.

Torress...
Is the head shape like past generations (Tear Drop) or is it more like a Radical and/or Prestige?

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I thought it looked more long and oval than tear drop. I suppose that there's a very slight tear drop ie it tapers slightly towards the lower half of the hoop, but overal, its really more of an oval. Definitely nothing like the rounder headshape of the previous version.

Hit with it two more times this weekend. I was able to hit all my shots and here is my finding.

I AM SWITCHING TO THIS RACQUET IMMEDIATELY!!!!!

I have to say, I have demos every new racquet, except for the yonnex(s), and I keep coming back to my babolat due to weight balance and power I can produce along with spin. The downside is the babolats don't have the touch/feel for drop shots and touch vollley that I would like. Also, you get the occasional ball that would fly. The control is good,but could be much better.

All the demos usually produce better results in some categories, but not in enough for me to make the switch.

I have tested a ton of 18x20 as well as have played with the prestige mp and radical for many years.

I will go out on a limb and say that this racquet produces the most controllable power image ever seen with a 18x20 pattern. This racquet does everything phenomenally well. It swings with ease and balls are hit exactly where intended.

My hitting partner commented on my placement and depth of shots. He stated when I went for a shot the power was the same as my previous stick. Shots were coming at him with ample spin and hitting flat when needed was a breeze. Drop shot came of the stick with great precision and feel.

I am ordering two more for sure. I will keep my old sticks as I am a racquet junkie collector,but I am not looking back.

One more thing I would like to add, this stick has a very short learning curve. One or two session is all that it takes and you could play with it in matches.

I applaud head on this one, and hope they continue to listen to the player feedback.

Oh yeah.........the head shape has a little ovalish head shape, but it is not noticed when hitting. Nothing like the past dunlops-

This stick outshines everything in the head line including the radical and prestige pros in the power category. More precision than the mp prestige.

I have tested a ton of 18x20 as well as have played with the prestige mp and radical for many years.

I will go out on a limb and say that this racquet produces the most controllable power image ever seen with a 18x20 pattern. This racquet does everything phenomenally well. It swings with ease and balls are hit exactly where intended.

Oh yeah.........the head shape has a little ovalish head shape, but it is not noticed when hitting. Nothing like the past dunlops-

This stick outshines everything in the head line including the radical and prestige pros in the power category. More precision than the mp prestige.

Grip shape is spot on, not rounded and not square.

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So would you say this is one of the first 18x20 that has more power and spin than typical 18x20 while giving you more of a 16x19 lively string bed feel? I tried out both the Youtek Prestige MP and Pro and found them underpowered though control was great and have pretty much associated 18x20 with great control but lacks that additional pop and ease of spin.

So would you say this is one of the first 18x20 that has more power and spin than typical 18x20 while giving you more of a 16x19 lively string bed feel? I tried out both the Youtek Prestige MP and Pro and found them underpowered though control was great and have pretty much associated 18x20 with great control but lacks that additional pop and ease of spin.

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I'd say yes. This racquet has the pop and control. Not as much control as a Prestige but comparable.

I disagree with the comment as not as much control as the prestige mp. Here's how I see it. The prestige mp has control because of the lack of power it produces and what is required by the user. The speed had exceptional control WITH a ton of power. It you hit with less power and not as aggressive as a swing, the control is better IMO that the prestige.

So would you say this is one of the first 18x20 that has more power and spin than typical 18x20 while giving you more of a 16x19 lively string bed feel? I tried out both the Youtek Prestige MP and Pro and found them underpowered though control was great and have pretty much associated 18x20 with great control but lacks that additional pop and ease of spin.

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Those two sticks are very string Dependant. To answer your question,yes this is hands down the best 18x20 I have hit with. Granted I have not experimented with any other string or tension yet, which could get better or worse. I string racquets myself and knowing my game,think I dialed the string tension/spec to my liking and game.

The string bed isn't 16x19 like, its unique. It does not have the loose feeling that the 16x19 can feel like, but it does have the plush forgiving sweet spot of an open pattern racquet.

Try this stick period. Its worth the demo. It has great spin and pop with the control of the tight pattern. This is,for me,the shangra-la of what I was looking for.

Those two sticks are very string Dependant. To answer your question,yes this is hands down the best 18x20 I have hit with. Granted I have not experimented with any other string or tension yet, which could get better or worse. I string racquets myself and knowing my game,think I dialed the string tension/spec to my liking and game.

The string bed isn't 16x19 like, its unique. It does not have the loose feeling that the 16x19 can feel like, but it does have the plush forgiving sweet spot of an open pattern racquet.

Try this stick period. Its worth the demo. It has great spin and pop with the control of the tight pattern. This is,for me,the shangra-la of what I was looking for.

Funny, my local store said head is already backordered on these.

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Great what tension recommendation do you suggest for a gut main/poly hybrid or a full set of multi?

What type of stroke do you have? Swing type, current string type, racquet and tension? I like to know this info before I make a recommendation. Also what type of string would you be referring to in those combinations?

What type of stroke do you have? Swing type, current string type, racquet and tension? I like to know this info before I make a recommendation. Also what type of string would you be referring to in those combinations?

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I mainly use Babolat VS 17gauge non BT7 natural gut mains and Ltec 4S crosses and on a PSTGT, I string it at 58lbs mains/52lbs crosses and it feels good. On my blade 98 16x19, I tried 55lbs/50lbs but felt too springy so I probably will have to up it to 58lbs/52lbs like my PSTGT.

I also use Biphase X1 17gauge and string it at 58lbs full setup. The reason I ask is I haven't had much luck trying to find a good tension for 18x20 on the two Head Youtek Prestige MP and Pro and I know you tend to string lower due to the tighter string bed so a starting suggestion would be helpful.

I disagree with the comment as not as much control as the prestige mp. Here's how I see it. The prestige mp has control because of the lack of power it produces and what is required by the user. The speed had exceptional control WITH a ton of power. It you hit with less power and not as aggressive as a swing, the control is better IMO that the prestige.

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I just think the Prestige might have a tad more control. I did say it was comparable but I think the low power definitely contributes to the control of the Prestige. The Speed is more powerful thus just a bit less control but its still solid. You get a bit of both IMO.

Those two sticks are very string Dependant. To answer your question,yes this is hands down the best 18x20 I have hit with. Granted I have not experimented with any other string or tension yet, which could get better or worse. I string racquets myself and knowing my game,think I dialed the string tension/spec to my liking and game.

The string bed isn't 16x19 like, its unique. It does not have the loose feeling that the 16x19 can feel like, but it does have the plush forgiving sweet spot of an open pattern racquet.

Try this stick period. Its worth the demo. It has great spin and pop with the control of the tight pattern. This is,for me,the shangra-la of what I was looking for.

Funny, my local store said head is already backordered on these.

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I totally agree with your comments on the racquet. Love it myself. I'd switch but I still want to have more playing time with it. Luckily for me, I can get these racquets with the Head partial sponsorship package since I'm a college player.

I just think the Prestige might have a tad more control. I did say it was comparable but I think the low power definitely contributes to the control of the Prestige. The Speed is more powerful thus less control but its still solid. You get a bit of both IMO.

I totally agree with your comments on the racquet. Love it myself. I'd switch but I still want to have more playing time with it. Luckily for me, I can get these racquets with the Head partial sponsorship package since I'm a college player.

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Mrmo...... I can understand your points. Of course with anything...... Racquets and string vary from player to player......... But many people will love thi

How does the handle compare against the Blade or PSTGT? I notice Head is not consistent with their handles, sometimes they are round like Wilson and Babolat and other times they are square or rectangle.

I am trying to figure out which grip size to get and depending on whether it is square, round, or even more rectangle, I can go between 4 1/4 to 4 3/8.

How does the handle compare against the Blade or PSTGT? I notice Head is not consistent with their handles, sometimes they are round like Wilson and Babolat and other times they are square or rectangle.

I am trying to figure out which grip size to get and depending on whether it is square, round, or even more rectangle, I can go between 4 1/4 to 4 3/8.

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^^^

I'm assuming this frame is in line with previous Speed line 82S grip which is more round than classic 82 oval HEAD shape.

Hit with it two more times this weekend. I was able to hit all my shots and here is my finding.

I AM SWITCHING TO THIS RACQUET IMMEDIATELY!!!!!

I have to say, I have demos every new racquet, except for the yonnex(s), and I keep coming back to my babolat due to weight balance and power I can produce along with spin. The downside is the babolats don't have the touch/feel for drop shots and touch vollley that I would like. Also, you get the occasional ball that would fly. The control is good,but could be much better.

All the demos usually produce better results in some categories, but not in enough for me to make the switch.

I have tested a ton of 18x20 as well as have played with the prestige mp and radical for many years.

I will go out on a limb and say that this racquet produces the most controllable power image ever seen with a 18x20 pattern. This racquet does everything phenomenally well. It swings with ease and balls are hit exactly where intended.

My hitting partner commented on my placement and depth of shots. He stated when I went for a shot the power was the same as my previous stick. Shots were coming at him with ample spin and hitting flat when needed was a breeze. Drop shot came of the stick with great precision and feel.

I am ordering two more for sure. I will keep my old sticks as I am a racquet junkie collector,but I am not looking back.

One more thing I would like to add, this stick has a very short learning curve. One or two session is all that it takes and you could play with it in matches.

I applaud head on this one, and hope they continue to listen to the player feedback.

Oh yeah.........the head shape has a little ovalish head shape, but it is not noticed when hitting. Nothing like the past dunlops-

This stick outshines everything in the head line including the radical and prestige pros in the power category. More precision than the mp prestige.

Grip shape is spot on, not rounded and not square.

Click to expand...

Can you compare that with a prestige MP?
any similarities or difference?

Not bad. Maybe I won't have to. Do you plan on matching them down to the ounce with lead and what not? If its .x ounces or something minute, I won't go for the matching service. It's still something I'm on the fence about.

Not bad. Maybe I won't have to. Do you plan on matching them down to the ounce with lead and what not? If its .x ounces or something minute, I won't go for the matching service. It's still something I'm on the fence about.

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Yes, I always match my sticks to the heaviest one with lead and the scale and balance board. When done they will be the same weight and points head light. It seems minor, but I can pick up each and feel the difference. Some people says its not noticeable, but I can feel the difference.

Quality control seems the usual. Funny but TW has them averaging at 11.7strung. I am glad I got ones a bit heavier than that.

My first one is 347 grams with dampener and over grip and is pure bliss.

Yes, I always match my sticks to the heaviest one with lead and the scale and balance board. When done they will be the same weight and points head light. It seems minor, but I can pick up each and feel the difference. Some people says its not noticeable, but I can feel the difference.

Quality control seems the usual. Funny but TW has them averaging at 11.7strung. I am glad I got ones a bit heavier than that.

My first one is 347 grams with dampener and over grip and is pure bliss.

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Darn you really make it a priority.. I've never done it with any previous racquets.. so I don't know if I'll do it. I guess if I switch and have 3 sticks and can feel differences then I'll look into it more.

Darn you really make it a priority.. I've never done it with any previous racquets.. so I don't know if I'll do it. I guess if I switch and have 3 sticks and can feel differences then I'll look into it more.

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I think the quality control is going to be all over the map. .2oz is still noticeable especially if the balance is also different. I would pay $10 just for TW to find two racquets with the same weight and balance. I did it a few months ago and it's well worth it. They manage to find me two of the Head Radical S that were .01oz difference and same balance which is pretty good.

Since there is no demo program in my area, I am going to have to wait until TW has the demo to try them out and see if they work for me.